Video Streaming Frequently Asked Questions

A: Search the UB Libraries Catalog as well as Kanopy (educational and popular), and Swank (popular feature films), and AVON (educational and documentary) streaming services, or one of the specialized subject databases listed on the Streaming Video and Audio research guide. The following two aggregate websites may also be helpful in locating videos: Reelgood and JustWatch. If these options fail, please fill out a Purchase Recommendation form.

A: The following are potential reasons your film isn't working

1. The license for the film has expired. Films accessed via Kanopy, Swank and other platforms, are licensed individually by the Libraries. Once the licensing term has expired, access would need to be requested again. Licensing terms may vary, and any instructor who would like to ensure uninterrupted access and availability of the film should fill out the Purchase Recommendation form.
2. Try refreshing your browser or checking to be sure you have the most up-to-date version.
3. Consult the Troubleshooting tab on the Libraries Streaming Video and Audio research guide.

A: Usually not. Many popular home streaming services (Amazon, AppleTV, Netflix) are restricted to personal use only. This prohibits Fair Use in the classroom. Please check your license agreement before showing any videos from your personal account. From the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), this article explains why using your personal subscription video services is governed by the license, or Terms of Use, you agreed to when you subscribed to the service.

The Libraries do not have accounts for these services. We may be able to locate the videos you need from other sources. If you do not find your video titles in our catalog or subscription databases, please fill out a Purchase Recommendation form.

A: Yes, to registered students only. However, please note that each distributor or database has different rules about sharing over a platform like Zoom. In some cases, the platform recognizes copyright restrictions and the film will not display through screen sharing. Some distributors do not allow it at all.

A: It is recommended that you verify the content has been uploaded to YouTube legally before doing so. This can be done by looking for rights and license statements accompanying the video, or by examining the YouTube user’s profile. While it’s easy to find content on YouTube, it is important to note that some may have been uploaded without the copyright owner's consent—and these can be taken down without notice.

A: Yes, as long as fair use guidelines for education are followed. Please see the Copyright and Public Performance Rights tab on the Streaming Video and Audio guide, or the Libraries’ Copyright Overview guide.

A: Yes, to registered students only BUT with limits as to portions of the DVD's content. From Penn State University Libraries, this "Play a DVD over Zoom" FAQ addresses your options for screening a DVD in your class.

A:  There may be some exceptions. Please see the UB Libraries’ Copyright Guide for details on Fair Use and other exceptions.